Norwegian Dragestil Sterling Silver Dram Cup by Marius Hammer
Hollowware - Dram Cup / Drinking Vessel · Marius Hammer (Bergen, Norway). Hammer was a preeminent Norwegian silversmith active from 1867-1927, famous for pioneering the 'Dragestil' style.
Pattern: Dragestil (Dragon Style) - a Viking Revival movement using Norse mythological motifs with high-relief repoussé work.
Type
Hollowware - Dram Cup / Drinking Vessel
Maker
Marius Hammer (Bergen, Norway). Hammer was a preeminent Norwegian silversmith active from 1867-1927, famous for pioneering the 'Dragestil' style.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or 830 Silver (the common Norwegian standard of the era). Solid construction with heavy oxidized patina in recessed areas.
Dimensions
Diameter: approx. 2.5 inches; Height: approx. 3 inches (including handle). Estimated weight: 60-90 grams.
Description
An exquisite example of Norwegian Viking Revival silver, this dram cup or kåsa features a circular body elevated on three feet. The exterior is divided into panels of intricate repoussé scrollwork centered by raised bosses. The piece is defined by its dramatic zoomorphic handle, which captures the mythological aesthetic popular in Scandinavia at the turn of the century.
Key Features
The distinctive dragon-head handle and the 'Hoof' tripod feet are signature elements of Marius Hammer's hollowware production.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or 830 Silver (the common Norwegian standard of the era). Solid construction with heavy oxidized patina in recessed areas.
Finish & Decoration
Dragestil Viking Revival. Features high-relief repoussé panels with central boss motifs, scrollwork, and a distinct cast 'Dragon Head' or Zoomorphic handle.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically stamped inside the rim or on the base with the Marius Hammer 'Hammer' pictorial mark, '830S' or '925S', and sometimes the 'M' mark for Bergen.
Construction Details
The body is raised and decorated with chased/repoussé panels; the handle and tripod feet are lost-wax cast and hand-soldered to the main vessel.
Functional Features
Single-handle sipping vessel with tripod hoof-style feet for stability on uneven surfaces. Features a slight inner lip.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast solid silver handle shaped as a stylized Norse dragon or serpent, featuring scales and scrollwork to provide a thumb grip.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-chasing. The detail in the dragon's head indicates a master-class mold for the casting process.
Authentication Indicators
Solder seams on the handle and feet are consistent with late 19th-century workshop production. Hallmark placement is typically near the top interior rim.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bergen, Norway. Crafted in the workshop of Marius Hammer, often considered the 'Cellini of Norway' for his fine metalwork.
Era & Period
Viking Revival / Dragestil (Late 19th Century, approx. 1890-1910). A nationalist response to the Arts & Crafts and Art Nouveau movements.
Age Estimate
Circa 1895–1905 based on the handle style and the specific panel motifs common to Hammer's turn-of-the-century catalogs.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Norwegian nationalist movement to rediscover their Viking heritage through art as they moved toward independence from Sweden (achieved 1905).
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible oxidation in the recesses (likely intentional to highlight the repoussé). No major dents or thinning visible on the body.
Value Estimate
$350 - $650 USD depending on the specific hallmarks and whether it is 830 or 925 purity silver.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand-washing only. Avoid over-polishing with abrasive creams to protect the intentional oxidation that gives the dragon motifs their depth.
Similar Pieces
Often compared to pieces by David-Andersen, though Hammer's work is typically more ornate with heavier repoussé work than David-Andersen's enamel pieces.
Interesting Facts
Marius Hammer was a favorite of British royalty, specifically Queen Alexandra, which helped popularize Norwegian silver across Europe.